Becoming a Florist

Most people come to a career as a florist because they're interested in design, have a family member who is a florist, or just because they want to run their own business and they have a knack for floral design.
Whatever reason for your interest in florist training, understanding how to become a florist is an important first step on your road to a great career. My time as a florist has been equally hectic and rewarding. I have just recently opened my own shop, and I'm reaping the financial and personal rewards. But it wasn't easy.

I remember trying to find out how to become a florist by asking my teachers and guidance counselor. I was practically laughed off campus. People said "This isn't a career, it's a hobby!" or "Why don't you go to law school instead?" But I knew flowers were my passion, and that my dream was to one day own my own flower shop.


If you're truly interested in floral design, you have more avenues to achieve your goal than ever before. Here are the three most popular ways to get florist training.

1. Private floral design schools
If you have a little money in the bank or a rich relative, a private floral design school is the best possible flower design training you can get. It is expensive, but in a very short time you'll get the kind of personalized intensive hands-on training in floral design that florists like me look for in job candidates. There aren't many of these schools in more rural parts of the country, so you may have to relocate for a while to earn your certificate--also, most of these schools don't offer financial aid, so be prepared to shell out big bucks.

2. Associates degree programs
A more affordable way to earn florist training is to get your associate's degree in "applied science" with a course emphasis in floral design. These programs take up to two full years to complete, but allow you time to work part-time on your own. There's also plenty of financial aid for these programs, so this is a great avenue to take if you aren't made of money.

3. Certification in floral design
If you have great skill in floral design or have worked for a florist for a few years, you may be able to pass a floral design certification test with little or no preparation or training. These tests are administered by your state certification agency, so contact that agency for specific times and specifications for these tests.